Introduction
Rhode Island is known for efficient license processing and straightforward requirements. The Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline requires 40 hours of Category 1 CME biennially with several one-time topic requirements for specific populations.
As a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact (IMLC), Rhode Island offers expedited multistate licensing. This guide covers everything you need to know about Rhode Island medical license renewal in 2026.
Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Regulatory Authority | Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline |
| Parent Agency | Rhode Island Department of Health (RIDOH) |
| Renewal Cycle | Biennial (every 2 years) |
| Renewal Deadline | June 1 of even-numbered years |
| IMLC Status | Member State |
| Website | health.ri.gov |
Rhode Island Medical License Fees (2026)
| Fee Type | Amount | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Full License | $1,090.00 | Application or renewal |
| License + CSR | $1,290.00 | With Controlled Substance Registration |
Source: Rhode Island Department of Health
Last verified: January 22, 2026
CME Requirements
Basic CME Requirements
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Total Hours | 40 hours per 2 years |
| Credit Type | AMA PRA Category 1 or AOA Category 1a |
| Mandatory Topics | None recurring (one-time topics exist) |
One-Time CME Requirements
| Topic | Hours | Effective | Who |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alzheimer's Disease | 1 hour | August 2019 | All physicians (per career) |
| Schedule II Opioid Prescribing | 8 hours | January 2022 | Schedule II opioid prescribers |
| Medical Marijuana | 3 hours | Ongoing | Those issuing marijuana certifications |
Opioid CME Details
The 8-hour one-time opioid requirement for Schedule II prescribers covers:
- Appropriate prescribing of opioids for pain
- Pharmacology
- Adverse events
- Potential for dependence and tolerance
- Substance use disorder
- Alternatives to opioids for pain management
Alternative CME Compliance
The following satisfy the 40-hour requirement:
- ABMS Maintenance of Certification program participation
- AOA Osteopathic Continuous Certification (OCC) program participation
Renewal Timeline
| Date | Action |
|---|---|
| June 1, 2024 | Current renewal cycle begins |
| June 1, 2026 | Renewal deadline |
| After June 1 | License expired, reinstatement needed |
Online Renewal Process
- Access RIDOH Portal: Visit health.ri.gov/licensing
- Login: Use your existing credentials (ensure current email on file)
- Complete Application: Answer all required questions
- Certify CME: Attest to 40 hours plus one-time requirements
- Pay Fee: Submit $1,090 (or $1,290 with CSR)
- Save Confirmation: Keep receipt for records
Email Best Practices
RIDOH contacts licensees via email. Use a personal email rather than work or school emails that may change.
Consequences of Non-Renewal
| Status | Consequence |
|---|---|
| After June 1 | License expired |
| Expired license | Cannot practice in Rhode Island |
| Reinstatement | Additional fees and requirements |
Rhode Island-Specific Considerations
Fast Processing Reputation
Rhode Island is known for efficient license processing, making it attractive for physicians needing quick licensure.
High License Fees
At $1,090 (or $1,290 with CSR), Rhode Island has among the higher license fees nationally. Budget accordingly.
One-Time vs. Recurring Requirements
Rhode Island's approach uses one-time topic requirements rather than recurring mandates. Once Alzheimer's and opioid training are completed, they don't repeat.
IMLC Membership
Rhode Island is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. Eligible physicians can obtain expedited licensure through the IMLC process.
June 1 Even-Year Deadline
All Rhode Island licenses expire June 1 of even-numbered years. The next deadline is June 1, 2026.
Key Takeaways
- 40 hours of Category 1 CME per biennial period
- $1,090 renewal fee (among highest nationally)
- One-time requirements: 1hr Alzheimer's, 8hr opioid (for prescribers)
- June 1 even-year deadline
- MOC/OCC satisfies CME
- Rhode Island is an IMLC member state
Conclusion
Rhode Island offers fast processing and straightforward CME requirements. The one-time topic requirements (rather than recurring) simplify ongoing compliance. Higher fees reflect the state's comprehensive licensing services.
Use CredentialMate to track your CME progress, verify one-time requirements are completed, and ensure timely June 1 renewal.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many CME hours does Rhode Island require?
Rhode Island requires 40 hours of AMA PRA Category 1 or AOA Category 1a CME per biennial period (June 1 of even-numbered years).
What are the one-time CME requirements?
Rhode Island has one-time requirements for Alzheimer's disease (1 hour, all physicians) and opioid prescribing (8 hours, Schedule II prescribers). These don't repeat once completed.
How much does Rhode Island license renewal cost?
The renewal fee is $1,090 for a full license, or $1,290 if including Controlled Substance Registration. These are among the higher fees nationally.
When is the Rhode Island renewal deadline?
All Rhode Island medical licenses expire June 1 of even-numbered years. The next deadline is June 1, 2026.
Is Rhode Island part of the IMLC?
Yes, Rhode Island is a member of the Interstate Medical Licensure Compact. Eligible physicians can obtain expedited licensure through the IMLC process.
References
[1]: Rhode Island Board of Medical Licensure and Discipline
https://health.ri.gov/licenses/detail.php?id=200
[2]: AMA Ed Hub - Rhode Island CME Requirements
https://edhub.ama-assn.org/state-cme/Rhode-Island
[3]: Rhode Island Physicians Licensing
https://health.ri.gov/licensing/physicians
[4]: IMLC - Participating States
https://www.imlcc.org/participating-states/